Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful blend of flavors that brings together the comfort of white chicken chili and the vibrant zest of Mexican street corn. This dish is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion when you crave something hearty yet refreshing. With its creamy texture and spicy kick, Street Corn Chicken Chili is sure to impress your family and friends while satisfying your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices, fresh corn, and creamy ingredients creates a rich flavor profile.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy clean-up with everything cooked in one pot makes this recipe a time-saver.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings with its robust flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Street Corn Chicken Chili, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for even cooking and reduces prep time significantly.

Ingredients

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a mix between white chicken chili recipe and Mexican street corn, delicious flavors for a perfect one pot dish!

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion (diced)
• 3 to 4 jalapeno peppers (seeds removed and diced)
• 6 to 8 ears corn on the cob (kernels cut from cob)
• kosher salt, pepper

For the Protein

• 6 to 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 pounds ground chicken

For Flavoring

• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup your favorite beef broth (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chicken base (I used Better Than Bouillon)
• a few dashes hot sauce of choice

For Creaminess and Garnish

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 3 tablespoons lime juice

Optional Toppings

• More cilantro
• Crumbled cotija cheese
• Chili powder
• Lime wedges

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Set a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, jalapenos, corn kernels, kosher salt, and pepper. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add the garlic, ground chicken, chili powder, paprika, cumin, more kosher salt, and pepper. Cook for another 7 to 9 minutes, stirring frequently. Break apart the chicken with a spatula as it cooks.

Step 3: Simmer Together

Pour in the chicken broth and beef broth (if using), along with the chicken base. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 4: Finish with Creaminess

Stir in hot sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste for seasoning; adjust with more chili powder or salt if needed.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Street Corn Chicken Chili! Serve it warm with your choice of toppings like extra cilantro or crumbled cheese. Perfectly comforting every time!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Crumbled Cotija Cheese: Add creamy cotija cheese for a rich flavor contrast.
• Chili Powder: A dash of chili powder enhances the chili’s spice and color.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra zing when squeezed over the chili.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Pair with warm cornbread for a comforting and filling side.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and texture.
• Rice: A scoop of rice can help soak up the delicious broth while adding heartiness.

Garnishes

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add richness and balance to the spicy flavors.
• Sour Cream Dollop: Top each bowl with sour cream for creaminess that complements the heat.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili

To make your Street Corn Chicken Chili truly outstanding, consider these simple but effective tips.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh spices like cumin and chili powder to enhance the overall taste. Fresh spices elevate the dish significantly.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh corn when in season; it adds sweetness and texture. Fresh corn kernels create a more vibrant flavor profile.
• Adjust Consistency: If the chili is too thick, add more chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency. Adjusting the liquid helps balance flavors without compromising richness.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your chili during cooking to adjust spices and seasoning. This ensures the final dish meets your flavor preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili

Pairing your Street Corn Chicken Chili with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices pairs well with chili.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a cool contrast to spicy chili; serve with tortilla chips.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables are a healthy side that adds color and nutrients.
4. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw offers crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the chili.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Savory stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or beans make a hearty addition.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch along with the chili’s warmth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Street Corn Chicken Chili, it’s easy to overlook some key aspects. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their chili adequately. Always taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and spices throughout cooking.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Using canned or frozen corn can alter the flavor profile. Fresh corn on the cob enhances sweetness and texture.

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become tough. Cook until just done, then mix in other ingredients for a tender bite.

• Ignoring the simmer time: Rushing through the simmering stage can result in bland flavors. Allow your chili to simmer for at least 25 minutes to develop depth.

• Neglecting toppings: Toppings add flavor and texture. Don’t skip garnishing with cilantro, lime wedges, or cotija cheese for enhanced enjoyment.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a saucepan until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about Street Corn Chicken Chili:

What is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delicious blend of white chicken chili and Mexican street corn flavors. It combines chicken, corn, spices, and creamy elements.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute that will still provide a flavorful and healthy dish.

How spicy is this Street Corn Chicken Chili?

The spiciness depends on the amount of jalapenos you use. You can adjust it by adding fewer jalapenos or removing seeds for less heat.

What toppings pair well with Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Great toppings include fresh cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, lime wedges, or even avocado slices for added creaminess.

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. This one-pot dish is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!